Our first ever US store opened this week — at 155 5th Avenue, New York. We caught up with the store’s manager, Jessica Fong, to get the scoop on what to do, see and eat in the Big Apple, whether you’re a New York novice or seasoned visitor.

Located on one of the world’s most iconic shopping streets, our beautiful new Manhattan store — which opened this week — occupies 7,200 square feet of prime New York real estate. Whether you’re au fait with the city’s five boroughs or a first-time visitor, like Jessica, our guide will ensure you see the sights and find time to live like a local, too.

Parks and recreation

Central Park, Manhattan | Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Much like London, New York is blessed with an abundance of green spaces — the perfect way to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.

First-time visitor

Jessica recommends an afternoon stroll around the iconic Central Park, where tourists and locals alike flock on balmy Summer days. Far more than just a park, it boasts walking tours, exhibitions, a theatre and even a zoo.

Venture outside of Manhattan and be rewarded with a wealth of verdant green spaces, most notably in Brooklyn. Prospect and Fort Greene parks are two of the city’s loveliest, with a quieter, small-town feel and plenty of activities for little ones.

Brunch is a New York institution. On Saturdays and Sundays, you can’t walk further than a block or two without encountering hungry locals devouring stacks of pancakes, over-easy eggs and artisan coffee — booking ahead is strongly advised.

First-time visitor

For a truly authentic experience, head to the 24-hour Tick Tock Diner, located in Midtown’s Wyndham Hotel. Jessica (and Derek, our VM manager) love tucking into buttermilk pancakes and French toast.

View from the One World Observatory | The New York Historical Society & Museum

You could spend an entire weekend exploring New York’s storied museums and galleries and not even scratch the surface – so it’s important to be discerning. Some of the city’s finest museums also boast the best views, so you can combine culture with watching a beautiful sunset.

First-time visitor

A difficult but necessary visit, the September 11 Memorial and Museum is a beautiful tribute to the city’s worst tragedy. After such a sobering experience, the One World Observatory’s panoramic views are a welcome distraction – of all her new city experiences, Jessica says this is the one that makes her appreciate her new home the most.

A city steeped in culture and shaped by centuries of immigration and upheaval, there’s no better place to delve deeper into New York’s fascinating story than at the Historical Society and Museum near Central Park.

Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 on Broadway | The Comedy Cellar, Greenwich Village

First-time visitor

If you’re a theatre aficionado, a show on the world’s most famous stages is a must-see — but we recommend comparing West End prices first, as they can be prohibitively expensive. Jessica’s recommendation? Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 — a musical adaptation of War & Peace, nominated for 12 Tony awards.

Home to some of the world’s best comedy clubs, the city is a hub of under-the-radar acts and big-name headliners. Catch multiple acts for less than the price of a cinema ticket at the iconic Comedy Cellar in Greenwich Village — you never know who could walk on stage.

To those in the know, New York’s cafés are as accolade-worthy as in Paris or Rome. After a long day subway-hopping or museum-exploring, it’s time to indulge in the best coffee and cake in town – here’s where to satisfy sweet cravings.

First-time visitor

Cheesecake is to New York what afternoon tea is to London, and there’s no destination more iconic than Juniors. Founded in 1950 and with an illustrious clientele including Barack Obama, their cheesecake is made from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients. Jessica is partial to a generous slice of the original recipe, topped with sugared strawberries.

Sip pour-over black coffee (like a true New Yorker) at bijou café Laughing Man and try to spot an off-duty actor – Hugh Jackman, Robert de Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio have all made their home here in upscale Tribeca.